The Ultimate Vaporware: Power From Air

Devices much like solar panels on the top of every building could not only discharge lightning before it forms, but collect energy from the air — the ultimate renewable resource. That’s the scenario suggested by Brazilian researcher Fernando Galembeck, PhD, in a presentation at this year’s 240th Annual American Chemical Society meeting.

According to Science Daily, Galembeck’s research focuses on the recently confirmed fact that moisture in the air typically generates opposing electrical charges in silica and aluminum phosphate, both common substances found in air. They’re calling it “hygroelectricity,” meaning electricity from humidity.